Acura opens the doors on latest NSX Concept at NAIAS

A year after impressing auto enthusiasts with the original NSX Concept, Honda's Acura division unveiled the next evolution of its hybrid sports car at NAIAS 2013. While the exterior is largely the same with the exception of some tweaks here and there, Acura opens the doors and provides a look at one possible direction for the coupe's interior.

The all-new interior is defined by Acura as a "Human Support Cockpit" based around the concept of "synergy between man and machine," which is a gimmicky way of describing a driver-centric interior design. Key to the driver-focused nature of the cabin is the "simple sports interface," which aims to give the driver quick, sure control of the car without overwhelming them with buttons, dials and gizmos.

Acura furthers the NSX Concept's sporty intent with its choice of interior materials – red leather, carbon fiber and red-stitched Alcantara help create a space that exudes power, speed and confidence. The carbon fiber trim provides a clear barrier between passenger and driver areas, adding to the driver focus.

Outside, the latest concept is largely the same as the original, with the low, wide proportions carrying over. Look a little closer, though, and you'll see why the NSX Concept designers have been getting paid for the past year – tweaks around the front and rear fascias, new wheels and a couple of other minor body changes distinguish the 2013 NSX Concept from its 2012 counterpart.

"This further evolution of the Acura NSX Concept design is remarkably true to the original concept styling," said Mike Accavitti, Acura's vice president of national marketing operations. "We're making great progress in delivering on the expectations we created a year ago, with advanced technology that will bring new levels of performance and a unique, dynamic experience to the exotic sports car market."

As was announced last year, the car will use a sport hybrid Super Handling AWD (SH-AWD) powertrain with a mid-mounted V-6 engine with integrated motor and two front-mounted electric motors. With the help of an engine-integrated motor and dual-clutch transmission, this layout delivers instant positive or negative torque to the front wheels to boost handling capabilities.

Acura has not yet provided specs like power and acceleration, but with a couple of years left before production, the company will keep us guessing for a little while longer.

The interior represents one direction Acura may go with the production NSX

A head-on look of the NSX Concept

The 2013 NSX Concept's interior features red leather and carbon fiber

Acura shows the interior of the NSX Concept

The 2013 NSX Concept interior features red leather and carbon fiber

The 2013 NSX Concept interior features red leather and carbon fiber

The 2013 Acura NSX Concept

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